As Ghana joined the world to mark the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day, a powerful message emerged—not from politicians, civil society leaders, or global institutions, but from the voices of young pupils determined to shape a cleaner future for their country.
A total of 370 pupils from Adantia Methodist JHS and Fiapre Methodist Junior High School in the Sunyani West District have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to strengthen and adequately resource all anti-corruption agencies in Ghana to enable them to effectively execute their mandates.
The pupils, speaking during a community sensitization event held in Adantia, expressed deep concern about the persistent levels of corruption in the country. According to them, corruption over the years has not only delayed national development but has also had a direct negative impact on the wellbeing, safety, and future opportunities of Ghanaian children.
They lamented that corruption drains funds meant for school infrastructure, healthcare, learning materials, and essential social interventions that are critical to improving the lives of young people.
The pupils further called for stiffer punishment for corrupt officials, stressing that leniency and slow prosecution only embolden wrongdoers and weaken public trust in state institutions.
This year’s event was organised by the Sunyani Local Accountability Network in collaboration with the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, with support from GIZ, the European Union, and the Helwalt Foundation. The programme formed part of broader efforts to empower young people to speak up, demand transparency, and play active roles in building a corruption-free society.
Speaking at the event, the facilitator, CEO of Global Media Foundation LBG, Raphael Godlove Ahenu emphasized that children, though often overlooked in national accountability conversations, are among the most affected by the consequences of corruption. They commended the pupils for their boldness, urging them to continue championing integrity and transparency in their communities.
The International Anti-Corruption Day is observed globally on December 9 each year to raise awareness on the dangers of corruption and to mobilize citizens and institutions to take action against it. This year’s celebration in Sunyani West stands out for amplifying the voices of the young generation who are demanding responsible leadership, accountability, and a renewed commitment to fighting corruption in all forms.
The pupils concluded their call with a hopeful message: “We want a Ghana where our leaders protect our future, not their pockets.”
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